Sending Kids for Cello Classes
Parents want that their children should excel in different things. They try to expose them to as many different hobbies as possible at a young age. When the parents themselves are interested in the cello, it is quite understandable that they would want their children to learn it as well. But sending children off to cello classes needs a three-way dedication for it to succeed – from the parents, the teacher, and the child themselves.
Age appropriate
When considering sending your child to learn the cello, make sure that he or she is old enough to take the strain of holding the instrument and the classes. Parents often get enthused and send really young children to learn music, sometimes even against their will, but this usually backfires on the parents. Expose your child slowly and gradually to music until they reach the point where they actually want to learn further. The minimum age for learning an instrument is six. Any earlier and it might actually be unhealthy for the child, especially when it comes to posture training. For the cello, the child must at least be eight years old, because of its size and weight.
Making it enjoyable
Children do not really care about what they are doing as long as they are enjoying it. If the teacher is able to make the learning fun for the child, they would absorb everything fast and maybe even develop a passion for the cello. Cello teachers need to use slightly different techniques to teach the instrument to children for this purpose. Rewarding often, encouraging practice, being kind and accessible are things that children quickly appreciate and respond to, so find a teacher who can relate to children.
Location is important
It is essential that you consider the well-being of the child when arranging lessons for him or her. If your child is too timid and does not mingle easily, it is a better idea to find a teacher who would come to your home to teach. If your child enjoys meeting with other children in his classes, find a teacher who will fulfill this requirement. Involve your child in the decision making. Listen to their concerns and offer alternative suggestions. The goal should be to find a place conducive to learning for your child. Also remember that if your child has to carry their cello to the place of learning, they might quickly get tired of it.
Instrument
If you are thinking of handing down your old instrument to your child for practice or buying an adult size second hand cello, forget it. If you want your child to learn this instrument, take him or her to a reputed music store and find out what size cello would be appropriate to their size and age. Cellos come in many different sizes, depending on the height, body length and age. Once you know the proper size cello to purchase or hire, go ahead with acquiring it. Never ever hand over a full size cello in the hands of a child as it can spoil their posture forever and might even hurt them if they have to handle excessive weight frequently.
It is a beautiful experience to see your child excel at the cello. It is one of the positive aspects of the culture in Singapore, cello tutorials can be found easily and parents tend to expose their children to music at a young age. With a bit of caution and care, your child can have a great cello experience.